Monday was Park Day

After time to recover and refocus on Sunday, we headed into Monday for the Park Day with the core group of Children from Guarari.  We had hoped for sunshine and clear, warm weather that would suit swimming, soccer (I mean...football), and other outdoor activities.  We woke to a gloomy day, though not raining.  The children arrived with anticipation and lots of energy.  The morning consisted of playing at the river, lots of pool fun, running and playing games, football, blowing bubbles, frisbee, etc.  Just after we all had lunch, the dark ominous clouds rolled in, and in typical Costa Rica fashion, unleashed a torrential downpour.  The rain forced us all inside the park shelter, where the children painted t-shirts, performed a dance routine for us, and watched some of the brave, fearless folks who decided to engage in a game of football on the rain-soaked muddy field – those brave souls!  Once the rain subsided, the pool fun resumed and the laughter and noises of children playing filled the air. 

The park day was a great opportunity to continue to foster relationships with the children and their parents in a much more relaxed atmosphere.  The day was bittersweet though, as this was the last day that we would see our friends from Guarari.  The bitter - there were many hugs, kisses, and lots of tears as the Guarari children loaded the bus to head back home.  We were able to see the children, be just that – children full of joy and carefree spirit, but this was temporary.  It is sweet to know that they go home knowing that Jesus loves them, and that He is all they need, no matter what life may bring their way.